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Pettygrove, Rachna

USA (Featured Artist 2009)

"It has always been difficult for me to actually SHARE the fact that I have epilepsy... that I have seizures. So, for many years, I didn't speak of it and just silently hoped that I would have a good day, and people would not have to be "exposed" to them. It seemed to me that from their reaction, my seizures were worse for them that they were for myself. As the years passed and my seizures increased in frequency, I spent more and more time indoors and passed my time by drawing and eventually painting. With my artwork, those around me became less uncomfortable which gave me confidence that I could actually do something of purpose. Now, I no longer paint for them, but rather, I paint for myself."

Shockwave

by Rachna Pettygrove

oil on canvas (2008)

"Epilepsy shows itself in a number of various forms, intensities and reasons. However, it does not mean that we are incapable of living "normal" & productive lives. The least expected people will have seizures. Many Often times, we are prevented from living a life of quality NOT due to our seizures, but instead, to the the labels & assumptions that society has placed upon us."